Shimla:The apple production in Himachal Pradesh is likely to be hampered this year in view of the extreme weather conditions.
Himachal, which is known as the fruit bowl of India did not record the chilling hours in the early winter season that is needed for good apple production. The fluctuations in temperature coupled with bad weather conditions had earlier impacted flowering. Later, due to lack of timely rains in the summer season, the size of apples has also been affected thereby affecting its quality. Now, during the monsoons, apple cultivation has suffered major damages.
In such a situation, the state horticulture department has predicted a comparatively lower production. Thus, the total production in Himachal Pradesh has been estimated to be lesser than three crore boxes.
Production estimates of this year:
According to the reports received from apple producing districts across the state, apple production is estimated to be 2,91,42,800 boxes this time. Shimla district, which records the highest production among districts, is likely to come up with 1,60,99,550 boxes this time. Next comes, Kullu district, which is expected to produce 62,70,600 boxes and Kinnaur district that will have 33,32,200 boxes.
The production estimates in other districts will also be lesser this year. For instance, 24,47,250 boxes of apples are likely to be produced in Mandi district, 5,98,150 boxes in Chamba district, 3,09,400 boxes in Sirmaur district, 64,050 boxes in Lahaul Spiti district, 15,000 boxes in Kangra district, 4,900 boxes in Solan district, 1300 boxes in Bilaspur district and 350 boxes in Hamirpur district. The lowest apple production is usually from Una district, which is expected to have 50 boxes this time.
District-wise apple production in Himachal Pradesh | |
District | (Approx) Production in 2024 |
Shimla | 1,60,99,550 |
Kullu | 62,70,600 |
Kinnaur | 33,32,200 |
Mandi | 24,47,250 |
Chamba | 5,98,150 |
Sirmaur | 3,09,400 |
Lahaul Spiti | 64,050 |
Kangra | 15,000 |
Solan | 4,900 |
Bilaspur | 1300 |
Hamirpur | 350 |
Una | 50 |
Apple production since 2010